Healing Power of Manuka honey

Today probably every beekeeper knows Manuka honey. Manuka (monofloral) honey is produced in New Zealand from the nectar of the Manuka bush / tree (Leptospermum scoparium and/or Leptospermum polygalifolium).

Manuka tree is spread all across New Zealand so production of honey (if weather conditions are good) can be quite high.

Healing Power

Manuka honey has found antibacterial properties in vitro, but officially there is no conclusive evidence of benefit in medical use. »Manuka honey is classified as a Therapeutic good in Australia, and received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration in 2007.« (Wikipedia.com)

»And there is concern that Manuka honey may actually delay healing in people who have ulcers related to diabetes.« (webmd.com)

Medical use of Manuka honey

The main medical use is on top of a wound, for treating minor wounds and burns.

Today in science Manuka honey is also used for:

Preventing and treating cancer

Reducing high cholesterol

Reducing systemic inflammation

Treating diabetes

Treating eye, ear, and sinus infections

Treating gastrointestinal problems

So why is Manuka honey so preferred?

All honeys have Hydrogen peroxide component which gives most honey its antibiotic quality.But Manuka honey has other components with antibacterial qualities.

Manuka honey has methylglyoxal (MG) (is thixotropic) and has shown the highest viscosity among a range of study honeys. »This property is due to the presence of a protein or colloid and is its main visually defining character, along with its typical dark cream to dark brown color. To be labelled mānuka honey, at least 70% of its pollen content should come from Leptospermum scoparium«. (Wikipedia.com)

Bees collecting Manuka honey

New Zealand producer – Watson & Son Ltd

Watson & Son Ltd is a company dedicated to production of Manuka honey for medical use. They are producing honey with around 15,000 bee hives. Check short presentation video from Comvita brand for Manuka honey.